Mark Bradford Awarded National Medal of the Arts
Mark Bradford has been awarded the 2023 National Medal of the Arts by President Joseph R. Biden and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)
In receiving the award—the highest given to artists and arts patrons by the United States government—Bradford shared: ‘It is an unbelievable honor to be included among the recipients of the National Medal of Arts. I've always believed that my practice has had one foot in the studio and one foot in the world—acknowledgement by this community that my work has resonated is truly humbling.’
The National Medal of Arts is awarded to individuals or groups who are deserving of special recognition by reason of their outstanding contributions to the excellence, growth, support and availability of the arts in the United States.
National Medal of Arts recipient Mark Bradford with President and First Lady Biden. Photo courtesy of White House
National Medal of Arts recipients, 2024. Photo courtesy of White House
‘For revealing the full history of the Nation through groundbreaking art. Inspired by the diverse cultures of Southern California, Mark Bradford’s paper-on-canvas storytelling reveals the interwoven hopes, sorrows and joys of communities of color, with each layer challenging convention, shining light, and reminding us all of the full potential of America.’
—White House Citation
The award was presented by President Biden on 21 October 2024 in a private ceremony at the White House.
Learn more about Mark Bradford.
